Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is one of the most exciting experiences a family can have, and the first few months of your new pet’s life are some of the most important. At Painted Tree Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you start off on the right paw with a care plan that sets your pet up for a long, healthy future.
We recommend scheduling your new puppy or kitten’s first veterinary visit as soon as possible after adoption or purchase. This initial exam gives us a chance to evaluate your pet’s overall health, answer your questions, and map out a plan for vaccinations, parasite prevention, and all the milestones ahead.
Comprehensive New Pet Exams
Your pet’s first visit is thorough. Our veterinarians will assess your puppy or kitten’s growth, development, and overall condition, and check for any early signs of health concerns. We’ll also talk with you about what to expect in the coming weeks and months, from teething and growth spurts to socialization and behavior.
Vaccinations
Young pets have developing immune systems, which makes them more vulnerable to disease. Puppies and kittens need a series of vaccinations given at regular intervals during their first several months to build proper protection. For puppies, this typically includes rabies, canine distemper, leptospirosis, and bordetella vaccines. For kittens, we’ll focus on rabies, FVRCP, and FeLV. We’ll tailor the schedule to your pet’s specific needs and risk factors so they get exactly the protection they need.
Parasite Testing and Prevention
Intestinal parasites are extremely common in young pets and can cause serious illness — not just for your puppy or kitten, but potentially for your human family members as well. Fecal testing allows us to screen for hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and other parasites early on. We’ll also get your pet started on their first doses of flea, tick, and heartworm prevention to keep them protected as they grow.
Spay and Neuter
Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important health decisions you’ll make as a new pet owner. Beyond preventing unwanted litters, these procedures can reduce the risk of certain cancers and behavioral issues. Our veterinarians will talk with you about the right timing for your individual pet and make sure you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Microchipping
Collars and tags can fall off, but a microchip is a permanent form of identification that stays with your pet for life. It’s a quick, simple procedure that dramatically increases the chances of being reunited with your pet if they ever get lost. We recommend microchipping for all puppies and kittens.
Behavior and Nutrition Guidance
New pets don’t come with a manual — but we’re here to help. Whether you have questions about housebreaking, litterbox training, socialization, feeding schedules, or choosing the right food, our team can point you in the right direction. And if your pet needs more in-depth support, we offer dedicated behavioral counseling and nutritional counseling services.
To schedule your new puppy or kitten’s first visit, call Painted Tree Veterinary Hospital at 555-555-5555. We can’t wait to meet the newest member of your family.